People News
Our people: Rory Marr.
Helping to educate and promote good practice.
I’ve had an unorthodox route to consultancy…
…After studying business and finance at Bristol Poly (as it was known then), I was fortunate enough to join a family electrical business. They insisted on sending me on several work secondments with wholesale and manufacturing companies such as Tenby, Pirelli, and Hager, among others. This provided me with a comprehensive understanding of the electrical industry, and along the way, I qualified as an on-site electrician and data installer (copper and fibre).
During my electrical training, I attended numerous lighting design courses, sparking my interest in the field. Eventually, I set up my own lighting design consultancy, which I successfully ran for 15 years before transitioning to the global world of multidisciplinary consultancy.
I’ve been incredibly fortunate to work on some amazing award-winning projects both in the UK and abroad. Having spent my formative years promoting technology and highlighting the commercial benefits of good lighting design, my inner hippy self has always wanted to give back and channel the experience gained and enthusiasm to help create fabulous environments, whilst reducing waste and being sensitive to all around.
Before joining Hoare Lea in 2022…
…I increasingly realised that I had become a generalist in the lighting industry. So, when Dominic Meyrick (who I saw present in the 90’s) asked if I’d be interested in taking the lead of the environmental lighting team, I jumped at the opportunity. Now, two years later, I’m loving it.
Within our lighting group…
…we have three specialisms: lighting design, daylight, and environmental lighting. The environmental lighting team assesses the impact of artificial lighting. Lighting impact assessments are often required as part of the planning process, whether applying for planning permission, discharging a condition, or monitoring a development once constructed.
The issue of light pollution is a hot topic and is riddled with complexities.
As part of my role, I will be supporting organisations such as the Society of Light and Lighting (SLL) and the Institution of Lighting Professionals (ILP)…
I am keen to encourage research and continued development of good practice, to help address the current imbalance of human and planetary needs.
I am excited to drive our North Star objectives…
…to help create appropriately considered lit environments that are sensitive to both human and ecological needs.
Light pollution is a human creation. We use artificial light to manipulate the night-time environment to suit our requirements.
Historically, lighting design has been human-centric, with little knowledge or regard for the impact it may have on the environment, wildlife and the visibility of the night sky and stars.
Looking ahead…
…our team will be exploring the use of drones and satellite technology to capture more accurate data. All our projects are unique and often under NDAs, making them all the more exciting.
Outside of work…
…I have a beautiful wife and together we have five kids (ages range between 13 and 20) and a springer spaniel, so staying active and physically fit is important. I love to fly fish on the river, swim outdoors and get out on my motorbike for a burn along country roads.